How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in France?

Studying abroad allows you to make new friends, see the world, and develop your academic and career prospects. However, like most amazing things, it doesn’t come free. With factors to consider such as tuition, airfare, and cost of living, you’ll need to calculate how much it will cost to study abroad in France.

Here are some of the costs to consider and money-saving tips for studying abroad in France.

France has a great education system and a wide range of prestigious universities for international students, including some of the best in Europe. Paris alone is home to four of the top 100 universities in the world rankings according to the Times Higher Education.

However, there are many other desirable locations for students in France, including but not limited to Marseille, Lyon, Montpellier, and more. Additionally, you can study in French, English, or both, in almost any subject.

Read more: The 10 Best Cities for Studying Abroad in France

The cost of studying in France is among some of the lowest in the world, especially compared to other developed countries. The average cost to study abroad in France will range from around $1,000 to $15,000 USD per semester depending on a number of factors and whether you plan to study at a public or a private university.

Private universities in France can be very expensive, however, public universities will offer lower tuition fees. Public universities are subsidized by the French government, making it more accessible and affordable for students.

Regardless of the type of school that you’ll be enrolling in, you’ll need to consider how you’ll be studying there.

• Direct enrollment: This involves applying to the university yourself. Direct enrollment is the cheapest option, but it requires you to do most of the research and the work yourself.
• Third-party provider: Applying through a third-party provider program means that a provider will help you with your application, visa process, accommodation, and more, doing all the heavy lifting for you. While this is a convenient option, it is more expensive than direct enrollment.
• Faculty-led study abroad program: You may opt to study abroad through a faculty-led study abroad program, organized and led by your university. While your university may partner with a third-party program provider, you'll be studying with other students attending your current university.

The cost of living in France will vary according to what city or town you are in. Living in Paris, for example, will have you spending more than if you were in smaller cities such as Lille or Toulouse. When factoring monthly costs, you’ll need to take into account regular expenses such as rent, transportation, activities, and food. This may also vary based on your lifestyle, such as how much you cook vs dine at restaurants, or what activities you opt to do in your free time.

Here is a breakdown of the average monthly cost of living in France, according to Numbeo:

• Rent: $600-$900 USD
• Transportation: $70 USD for a monthly pass
• Food & groceries: $325

*Note this particular total includes housing.

Tuition fees and cost of living factors aren’t the only things that you’ll need to consider. You’ll need to consider a range of other factors such as:

• Airfare: Unless you live in a nearby European country, you’re likely to need to pay for airfare in order to get to France. Be sure to book your flight at least 3 months in advance, and make use of student discounts with websites such as StudentUniverse!
• Travel insurance: While health insurance may be included with your study abroad program, you may want to consider getting travel insurance. This will cover you in the event of flight delays or cancellations, loss or theft of personal items, and more. World Nomads and Safety Wing are popular travel insurance options among international students and nomads!
• Travel: You’ll probably want to venture further afield and see more of France or nearby countries while you’re studying abroad. Whether you’re planning a weekend away in the French alps or hopping on the Eurostar to London, you’ll need to budget for trips and excursions.
• Cell phone plan: You may need to buy a new SIM card and pay for a new cell phone plan once you’re in-country. Students typically opt for a pay as you go plan because it is convenient and flexible, however, there are many options.

While spending money is inevitable during your study abroad, you should always take measures to minimize your spending habits. Over time, these frugal habits will add up!

Here are some of the best money-saving tips for studying abroad in France:

• Opt for modest accommodation: While studying abroad, you don’t need the best accommodation in the world. You’ll be spending much of your time out studying, and also wandering your new city with your new friends. You can find modest yet homely accommodations catered for students with websites such as Student.com.
• Cook at home: Cooking dinners at home or preparing your own lunch is a great way to reduce costs. Eating meals out, even if they’re cheap, can add up quickly, especially if you like to grab a coffee or a drink after studying.
• Utilize student discounts! Many museums, theaters, monuments and popular sites (including the Louvre!) offer free or discounted tickets for students and youth.
• Use an international card: You can use an international credit card or a debit card to minimize or even eliminate foreign transaction fees. If you’re skeptical about using credit cards, create a bank account with an international bank such as Starling or Revolut, for example.
• Keep track of expenses: Using money spending apps such as Notion, Mint, Wallet, or other is a great way to keep track of how much you’re spending. When you’re spending frequently on smaller things like meals, coffees, transportations, it can be easy to forget how much it adds up.

Read more: How to Budget for Study Abroad

There are plenty of study abroad scholarships and grants you can apply for. Each year, thousands of dollars go unclaimed because many people don’t realize that applying for a scholarship is an option! Should you receive a scholarship, it can make your study abroad experience much more viable financially.

If you’re wondering how you can create the best application possible to maximize your chances of winning, we’ve got you covered! Here are some of the secrets to winning study abroad scholarships.

Read more: 50+ Scholarships & Grants for Study Abroad

Tuition fees, paying the rent, and finding a cell phone plan are all just steps that you'll have to take in order to have all of those unforgettable memories studying abroad in France.

It's important to know what the costs are so that you're not surprised by any last-minute, surprise costs as you plan your term or year overseas. While France may not be known as a budget destination to most, you can make it so by putting in the research and applying these tips!

Study abroad in France like a pro:

• Things to Know Before Studying Abroad in France as an International Student
• The 10 Best Cities for Studying Abroad in France
• How to Ace Your Study Abroad Application